Hi Jen! I just love your sense of humor! It is much needed at this point in time and I soooo appreciate it. Thank you so much for putting out content. I think we all need this happy distraction right now.. Much love to you and the family. ❤
Thank you for this! There’s is so much information out there about choosing a home resort and you broke it down so nicely and concisely. This definitely gives me more to think about then just the numbers for choosing a resort.
I saw online the Boardwalk just removed the clown!!! The new face is so so cute! We just placed an offer on a small resale contract at BW once I saw this changed! Your video was so helpful
I totally agree with most of your assessments - my faves that are SO me, “Boardwalk no because of the scary clown” “Beach Club THAT pool”, the Poly “just because it’s the Poly”, and Animal Kingdom Lodge has totally become probably my favorite ❤️ Thank you so much for all of that research and info! #wow
Long time no comment!!! I've been listening along, but just haven't had the chance to log in on my computer and comment. So, thank you for all of the lovely content that you've been putting out there! I loved this DVC rating video! I appreciate how much thought and detail you put into these! We discovered as a family of 5 that most of the studios were a no-go (hence Boulder Ridge), and I love that you covered that stuff here. We've actually only ever stayed at the Grand Californian DVC, but we bought our resale at Boulder Ridge, so can't wait to stay there. Hope you are all well!
While I wish the Polynesian had 1 and 2 bedroom options, I do love the size of their studios. I believe they are the largest on property. If we have to stay in a studio, we love the Polynesian. We once did a split stay at Bay Lake Tower then Polynesian, and I can tell you there is a HUGE different in the size of the studios. Great video as always! ♥️
I know it is secluded, but Kidani all day every day! Sorry Jen, but the animals are the main event, and the pool area is amazing, so an A for amenities! Great and informative video, thanks!
Such a fun video Jen and made me think about of all the things I love (or not) about these resorts! I do recommend you stay at Riviera sometime and check it out, even though it is more points. We stayed there over Christmas and absolutely loved it and Topolinos is amazing!!
Jenn- I understand the concept of no toilet no bathroom because I live in an OLD trailer, the second bathroom a dinky afterthought of a space that is also a "laundry room" & there is no room to swing even a small cat. Its second bedroom is really a closet with a space for a closet that has the fuse box in it, which means the space is not safe to hang clothes in. The video was delightful, always enjoy getting your observations and experiences. Question: If you were not a DVC member which resort would you choose to stay in, Deluxe, moderate or value? Would that be different if your family were along or if it was just you and Scott?
Watching this year's later cause we are staying at poly in a few weeks and never have before. I love how staying at a resort can make youoverlookk the negatives. I was always like ehh copper creek, and then we stayed there and I was like we need to but here immediately. And Riveria was kind-of that for you.
@@JenLefforge love this kind of videos! just an idea, a video where we can see each dvc room from each dvc resort would be great, to compare the sizes and what its included in each room. :)
Poly has the biggest studio on property, bigger than OKW and with 1.5 baths, it allows a family of 5 to get ready more efficiently than any other studio on property dvc or standard room.
Jen Lefforge - we are a family of 5 too! Torn between BLT, GF and Copper Creek for our next trip. We are usually and Epcot resort fam but want to try MK with my folks (both need ECVs) so this video was very helpful!! GF rooms tempt me! Pool is better there for littles than BLT. But Copper Creek is cheaper!! Decisions decisions!!
Has anyone else noticed that Kermit in the background looks absolutely horrified?! lol! Great recap, Jen, thank you! I rented points for a studio (just hubby and me) at AKL - Kidani and the Poly (!!!) for September this year (here's hoping.... :( ). Really can't wait, these look beautiful!
Great breakdown! I am with you on the toilet situation. Huge selling point for BLT and Kidani. We own at OKW too, huge rooms and amazing point chart there. Plus it’s relaxation personified!
I agree completely--if it doesn't have a toilet, it doesn't count as a bathroom. The only DVC resort we've ever stayed at was BWV, the time we rented from another TGMer. While we loved it there, I guess I discovered on that vacation that I'm a value resort kind of girl. It's all good, though--if we all liked the same thing, what a boring world it would be. Loved the video, Jen! Hugs, Kim
Thanks for all your hard work you put in this vlog.❤👍👏 Our home resort is Boardwalk and enjoyed being a member since 1998. Thanks again for your enthusiastic vlogs keep up the great job.❤👍😍
This was great! We’re not DVC but we have rented so it was cool to hear the grading system...side note....I announced to my husband...” I’ll be in the kitchen watching Jen Laforge and making dinner! 🤣 glad you’ll be putting out new videos everyday! Stay well!
Such an informative video! I couldn't for the life of me research all of these resorts. I can't even wrap my head around the points chart when trying to book rooms😂
What a great video! Wish I had come across it sooner. Just wondering why you did not mention the Golf Course in Amenities for SSR and maybe OKW (for closeness to Clubhouse at SSR). You get a DVC discount there and it is very convenient to get to when you stay at either Resort. Also, you could have mentioned the tennis courts
Great video Jen. My family has been doing 2 BR stays at Old Key West for a few years and we figured it would at least be worth looking into DVC. One question I had was about expiration dates there, which you dealt with personally. Can you buy contracts with the 2042 and 2057 expiration dates on the resale market? I assume you can but 2057 is likely harder to find. Is that why you chose to buy direct from Disney for Old Key West? I’m aware of the perks only being available when purchasing direct from Disney, but what are the differences specifically related to buying Old Key West resale vs. direct? How does price compare? I assume Disney charges more than the typical resale rate, but I don’t know if it’s closer to Old Key West resale or to the “current” DVC properties (Riviera, Copper Creek). I assume the benefit from doing this is you get the perks and the 2057 expiration. What am I missing? Thanks for the info!
Great video. I really like hearing about the DVC properties even though I am not interested in purchasing, I think I will add a couple of them to our hotel tours we take while we are on vacation. We really like visiting other resorts just to break up the park days with something a little different.
Which are wonderful and fantastic and absolutely a way to enjoy Disney! I love DVC but it is just one way to go - there are lots of other ways and huge benefits to them as well.
We had a great time at Art of Animation and can deal with one bathroom and small room size. I really like the Poly for theming, amenities, location and price. It looks like we could buy 100 points and stay every year for 5 weekdays during much of the year. Am I right to say that that’s the only DVC option that you can do that? If so, that’s very attractive for us. Maybe we can upgrade later, especially if we have a third kid or when they get older. But Poly with 100 points seems a great “entry level” DVC buy in.
I was ready for a meltdown when I saw the notification of your video: thank you soooo much for such lovely diversion. I'm praying for my 90 year old Dad and your Mom! God Bless You for all you do for us! --Susan
Susan that is exactly why I’m doing it and it’s for me as much as you guys!! Thank you for sharing that with me and we are all in this together! Just got off the phone with mom and she’s doing well so we will just keep on keeping on!
Loved this and all your videos. Thank you! We were renting points at BLT for THIS week. Our first DVC resort stay. Wah! We are very grateful that we got rebooked for the fall. Highly considering purchasing a resale contract and this info is amazing. My hubby and I are both very analytical. He'll find this helpful when the time comes. The kids and I keep saying "Dad hasn't said no yet." Haha!
Seriously look at the resale market. I hate that so many people are probably going to have to look at selling, but I definitely could see some prices coming down in the coming months (and I feel like a jerk even saying that but if it's something you've been considering anyway . . )
Jen Lefforge We for sure will be looking at that. My husband says we should get a stay under our belts before committing. I can’t imagine that we wouldn’t love it, but he has a point. We have only stayed moderate or off site before. For now, we’ll just watch your videos and Frozen 2!
A lot of folks have the misconception that AKL is far away from everything. It’s not. Yes, you have to drive or take a bus, but distance it is not. AKL distance to Hollywood Studios 4.2 miles. BLT (Contemporary) is 7.4 miles. AKL to Epcot is 5.5, BLT to Epcot 4.5, and Wilderness Lodge is 4 miles. AKL to AK is 1 mile. BLT to AK is 6.5 miles. It’s really not that far to EPCOT. AKL just looks far on a map, but in reality, distance wise, it’s not. It is far from Magic Kingdom. Yes, mode of transportation is bus or car. However, I will say, the buses are very reliable at AKL than everywhere else I’ve stayed at.
Great analysis Jen! Maybe give the grades number values to determine the winners in purposes of rankings. So difficult choosing a favorite but definitely helpful!
For what it's worth, I think Stormalong Bay is great for littles and those who are not yet swimming! There is the zero entry sand bottom person I which is perfect for that she group. They have all sizes of life jackets available. This is assuming if your child is not yet swimming, you would be right there with them anyway - there lifeguards are also very attentive. Loved it there!
our problem was three kids with varying swimming levels and it’s just a lot of acreage to keep track of three. For fewer kids or closer ages I think it would be fine.
Thanks for making this video! It was very informative! Do you think that the Riviera is so "expensive" in terms of points because it is so new? As in maybe five years from now it may go down in points per week, or will this be the standard?
I absolutely love Saratoga . I’m weird I loved the old rooms before the refurbishment. Food situation I thought horrible. Old Key west absolutely love except the busses( mother of god!). Boardwalk nice but I wasn’t overwhelmed. Beach club, my daughter and me spend 4 hours a day in those pools! Location. Food. It’s everything! Copper creek waaayyy to small rooms! Boulder ridge Love. The pools so much more quiet. The cabins right outside and great food choices. Contemporary is starting to interest me....... so happy I found your channel! Fair and balanced and you tell it like it is! I love it!!!!!
Hi Jen! Great video as always - I totally understand what you mean when you say you like AKL because you need more toilets having 5 people in your family - but as a family of 3 girls I still appreciate the rooms that have a second shower for when we need to get ready to go!
Yeah, I completely get that - I just wish they had both! At AKL they have two showers AND two toilets! I was hoping that's what they would do moving forward but sadly, no.
With regards to the resale restriction, as per the POS resale points at Riviera are only able to be used at Riviera (it specifies that they can't be used at future resorts). Really enjoyed this video! Always interesting to see other people's views on the various resorts.
My husband and I just went through this. We were between Animal Kingdom Villas and Bay Lake Tower. The Cotemporary is our home but AKV is a great value. In the end we decided on BLT. The location and atmosphere we are sacrificing on. We will have to alternate between 1 bedrooms and studios. But a studio with a theme park view I feel is ok in the alternate years! Lol. Our resale contract should be sent to Disneu this week. I'm hoping they don't exercise ROFR like they did last year. 🤞
For us...I like the studios that sleep 5...like Boulder Ridge and Poly. It is tight space with that many in a studio..but for a trip that is only a few days and most of your time may be spent at the parks..it's a better value. We took our son (12), godson (22), and his girlfriend for two nights and Poly was GREAT!
I just found your vlog. You do an awesome job. You remind me of ‘Grace’ from Will &Grace, you have such an expressive face and a lovely smile. Many years ago I bought at Beach Club Villas after doing tons of research, only to fall in love with Kidani when I was ‘Forced’ to stay there one year. I sold my DVC contract for the beach club, for 12 dollars more a point then I bought it for (sold in 2016). I am now shopping for an AKL contract. Your videos have been so helpful.
Honestly if Scott loved it more that would absolutely be where we owned as I ADORE it!! And thank you for being so kind and encouraging! It means the world to me.❤️
One always needs a new thing to obsess over, Liz. It's the key to happiness! Congratulations on the house - I hope everything goes well with the closing.
Great review. I have never thought about old key west because of it location and size. Last time we were at BC but missed a true quick service. Location was good but I agree the room was micro small for us...a couple plus an adult son. My favorite is the AK but I prefer JH. Out last stay at Kidani had a endless walk to the lobby but we had three bathrooms in a two bedroom. I have been looking to buy at AK but I have issues with my wife. We will see... anyway, thanks for your review.
Jen, You made this on my birthday. Sadly, my birthday trip was crushed by the horror. My favorite place is Jambo House. Our last trip we stayed at the Beach Club the previous January and we miss the AKL. The better transportation does not make up for the positive traits at AKL.
Have you discussed some of the DVC resell restrictions that were given to Riviera that was not to other resorts previously? Also, I have heard that the resorts not in Orlando have caused too much demand for Orlando that was not always there. For example, someone buying at Vero Beach but mostly using in Orlando. Just wondering the future of resell and DVC in general.
I think eyes get big for some on DVC. We did 90 points per year at OKW and mostly stay at OKW or Boardwalk each year.. And if we skip a year we have 180 to work with without borrowing. I would never compare a 2 bedroom DVC home away from home to a couple rooms at Port Orleans when talking $ because if one is to forgo a 2 bedroom and go with a studio, you can get 3 studio room reservations for the same points as a two bedroom per night... so that would be a fair comparison. Also the savings on annual passes lets us get what (feels like) a free vacation every other year. We get the same annual pass that is available to FL residents being with DVC.. Example: If we go in April the year we get the Annual passes (nearly the cost of a 7 day hopper pass)... The following year if we go in Feb or Mar, we dont need to purchase tickets and like always.... use our points for the room..."Feels Free" Annual Dues are on auto pilot each month at $58.80 for 2020. Nothing can save you more at Disney for staying in top resorts for the the price of value resorts once your initial purchase is paid for, and your points match a typical room you would get without DVC. If your eyes get big and you get points to stay in a 2 bedroom when you normally stay at moderate resort room, then the math may not work out for you... If you normally drop thousands for rack rate as a non DVC member to get a 2 bedroom home at Disney World then getting points for a two bedroom will definitely work in your favor. This is our delayed, but feels free year (if i dont cancel), but I have 5 nights 6 days at Boardwalk for the Flower and Garden at Epcot. The points are 14 per night so I used 70 of my 90 points.. So in dues you could say this will cost me 140 per night, but try and find a 5 night room only stay at any Disney World resort and see if it would compare to the Boardwalk and I have 20 points left over for my next vacation.. DVC is always a win win if you frequently go to Disney World are are able to buy just the amount of point needed to take the same vacation/accommodations you would normally take before getting into DVC. I think the newer 'resale' restrictions make it harder but i still see DVC as amazing
I have my 180 booking window next week. I'm having this weird guilt about booking when so many are having to cancel their current vacations. This whole situation is so wild. Thank you for making these videos! A great distraction that we all need.
Well, I figure DVC is kind of a long game type thing, Michelle, and we all have literally decades of wonderful vacations ahead of us so let's keep dreaming about them!
Jen, so I am having a hard time finding the value in DVC with a family of four that will only grow with my kids' spouses and grandkids. With average points required for a weeks stay at about 281 in this video, and finding equivalent resales still around $30,000 for that many points. Was the April week you choose say an average point requirement in the year? As you say, planning for retirement and family time how many points [annually] do you think the average family needs for at least trips every other year? Or is it really worth it to piecemeal points together until you achieve your needs? seems like a lot of trouble. IDK....
All great questions! We have a family of 5 and go every other year so we own a 120 point contract at OKW. We only go for 6 nights during the lowest point requirement time (January) and it's currently 195 points or the week. For us the math works but I totally get it really depends on where you want to stay! OKW is a tremendous value for points and we are very frugal. I could never justify say Grand Floridian or even Bay Lake so I get this!
thanks Jen, traveling in January would be tough for us given that the kids would have just gotten back into school from Christmas break, I think anyway. Thanks for your reply and input, it is appreciated.
It would be rather 'mathy' but it would be interesting to compare the points for each DVC during different times of year, especially with the new points change for 2021. For example is the wilderness lodge as much value during Christmas time, or Beach Club and Riviera during big Epcot festivals, or BLT during spring break and Christmas.
Hey, first time watcher and enjoyed the video. I actually think your rating of the Riviera Resort might be unfair, at least in evaluating studio accommodations. Here's why; while I agree with your statement "a bathroom isn't a bathroom unless it has two toilets", the split bathroom with a seperate shower and shower/bath is great to avoid the juggernaut of getting ready and walking out the door in the morning. If you then look at all the studio villas, 3 resorts have that advantage; the Polynesian, the Grand Floridian and the Riviera. Of those 3 resorts, the Riviera is the least expensive. Furthermore, the Riviera offers a pull-down Murphy Bed with a regular mattress rather then a pull-out coach. The Riviera is the only DVC resort to offer that at least in the studios. Also, the refrigerator in the Riviera has a small freezer compartment. That's great for ice packs. I find that advantage to be a nessecery item since you no longer can bring ice in coolers into the parks. How else are you going to be able to keep a portable cooler cold with a frozen ice pack? The only other solution is to bring a big cooler, put your previously frozen ice packs in the cooler and schlep out to an ice machine every night to refill the big cooler - BIG HASSLE!!!! As far as location, since the Riviera is connected to the skyliner, it's just as convenient to Epcot and Hollywood Studios as are the Crescent Lake dvc resorts. In fact, the skyliner would always be available whereas you may be waiting quite a while for one of the friendship boats on Crescent Lake. Now if you're Magic Kingdom crazy, then you'd truly need to stay at a monorail resort. However, if you think a Hollywood Studios/Epcot connection is a good or acceptable trade off for a Magic Kingdom/Epcot transportation system, Riviera works out great. Now mind you, I'm not a dvc owner and will only be renting points. I hope I'll be able to snatch up a reservation at Riviera. I'm not in the 11 month window yet and there's not a lot of owners with available Riviera points yet, but I have my fingers crossed.
Great points! We only ever stay in 1 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms, so always have a full sized refrigerator with freezer. And absolutely to the location. I stand by my opinion, but I appreciate your thoughts! And thanks for watching!
Hey Jen - We are brand new to your channel and we are HOOKED. We are SOOOOO grateful for your incredibly informative vlogs. When you were discussing Animal Kingdom, you mentioned "pool hopping" privileges that DVC members get? It is our understanding that DVC members no longer area allowed to "pool hop" between DVC resorts? Can you explain what you meant?
It's still available but it has limitations and they may not be allowing it right now due to Covid restrictions. Also, certain pools (AKV Jambo main pool, Stormalong Bay) are excluded. You just have to check before your trip! Even pre-Covid they would suspend it during really busy times but they communicate that through the member website. Hope that helps!
"its not a bathroom unless there is a toilet" would make an excellent bumper sticker. LOL! You're the best.
Hi Jen! I just love your sense of humor! It is much needed at this point in time and I soooo appreciate it. Thank you so much for putting out content. I think we all need this happy distraction right now.. Much love to you and the family. ❤
Thank you for this! There’s is so much information out there about choosing a home resort and you broke it down so nicely and concisely. This definitely gives me more to think about then just the numbers for choosing a resort.
There's definitely more to consider than just the numbers and I think that's a mistake a lot of people make! Thanks for watching!
" A very magical timeshare." Too funny!
You know, because it is but . . .still a timeshare. LOL!
Great video ! and your sense of humor is the best!
I saw online the Boardwalk just removed the clown!!! The new face is so so cute! We just placed an offer on a small resale contract at BW once I saw this changed! Your video was so helpful
'We're spreadsheet'n it up ya'll!' 😂
Hey Jen! Jenn and I just wanted to take a moment and wish Scott healthy travels.
Thank you so much, Darrell! He's washing his hands a lot and we are hoping for the best!
I totally agree with most of your assessments - my faves that are SO me, “Boardwalk no because of the scary clown” “Beach Club THAT pool”, the Poly “just because it’s the Poly”, and Animal Kingdom Lodge has totally become probably my favorite ❤️
Thank you so much for all of that research and info! #wow
Yeah I had a lot of fun gathering all the info! Keeping me busy is always a good thing especially when I’m stressed.
Your love of toilets shone through in this video 😂. Thank you for some great informative content in this weird/crazy time x
Seriously. If there aren't two toilets, Kelly, there AREN'T TWO BATHROOMS. I feel very strongly about thing, evidently.
Great video rating all of these WONDERFUL resorts. We are heading to Disneys Vero Beach very soon!
Got some great info about DVC resorts and a home workout in watching this video, thanks Jen!
In my opinion this is the BEST video comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each DVC. Thank you.
What a kind comment! Thank you so much, Daryl.
Wow! You are killing it with your research on this one! Thanks for the great info and much needed daily Disney distraction!
Well thank you!! It helps me not lose my mind!🤣😩🥰
Great GREAT vid! Extremely insightful
Long time no comment!!! I've been listening along, but just haven't had the chance to log in on my computer and comment. So, thank you for all of the lovely content that you've been putting out there! I loved this DVC rating video! I appreciate how much thought and detail you put into these! We discovered as a family of 5 that most of the studios were a no-go (hence Boulder Ridge), and I love that you covered that stuff here. We've actually only ever stayed at the Grand Californian DVC, but we bought our resale at Boulder Ridge, so can't wait to stay there. Hope you are all well!
Loved this, I wish we could have a 40 minute video every day especially with spreadsheets!!
Well I do like to keep busy so ......🤣🤣🥰
@@JenLefforge Did you mean 291 for the Poly?? (Not 191?) Cause you said OKW was 250...
Oh my goodness this video is GOLD! Truly agree 100% with everything you said, thank you for doing this!
While I wish the Polynesian had 1 and 2 bedroom options, I do love the size of their studios. I believe they are the largest on property. If we have to stay in a studio, we love the Polynesian. We once did a split stay at Bay Lake Tower then Polynesian, and I can tell you there is a HUGE different in the size of the studios. Great video as always! ♥️
The BLT studios are horrible! Soooo tiny! I hope to stay in a Poly studio one of these days.
Thanks so much for this Information.
Very helpful when trying to decide if DVC is a good choice and which resort to choose.
Just stayed at Saratoga Springs, loved it. It is an easy walk to Disney Springs. This alone was really nice.
Yay! You are lifting my spirits. Thank you sooooooo much.
Love this video Jen, very helpful to a new DVC owner.
Im so glad I’m not the only one who is very turned off by the boardwalk scary clown pool 🤣 Thank you for providing this very well-spoken video!
what about those crazy doll chairs that come to life at night? hahaha
And now it's just a bad nightmare - the clown was removed!
You are a true gem! Thanks for the daily videos!,
The go to video when deciding which dvc resort to stay at! Thanks Jen :)
You’re most welcome!! So glad it’s helped!
I know it is secluded, but Kidani all day every day! Sorry Jen, but the animals are the main event, and the pool area is amazing, so an A for amenities! Great and informative video, thanks!
I truly do love Kidani!
Such a fun video Jen and made me think about of all the things I love (or not) about these resorts! I do recommend you stay at Riviera sometime and check it out, even though it is more points. We stayed there over Christmas and absolutely loved it and Topolinos is amazing!!
Oh, I definitely want to stay there! I viewed the models and thought they were GORGEOUS!
i love this video!! i love research as well so this was so so interesting. thank you!!
Wow!!!!!!!! What a boatload of info! Kudos to you for this video!!!!
LOL yeah that's what happens when I've got time on my hands, Kathi. Thank you!
@@JenLefforge lol you're killing me with the, "put that on a bumper sticker!"
Jenn- I understand the concept of no toilet no bathroom because I live in an OLD trailer, the second bathroom a dinky afterthought of a space that is also a "laundry room" & there is no room to swing even a small cat. Its second bedroom is really a closet with a space for a closet that has the fuse box in it, which means the space is not safe to hang clothes in. The video was delightful, always enjoy getting your observations and experiences. Question: If you were not a DVC member which resort would you choose to stay in, Deluxe, moderate or value? Would that be different if your family were along or if it was just you and Scott?
Great video idea, Melody! And I haven’t heard the no room to swing a small cat thing in awhile - made me laugh!! Thank you!🤣🤣🥰
I'd love an updated version of this video!
Truly living for this content. Thank you, Jen!
Wow, thank you, Keely! See you tomorrow?
Watching this year's later cause we are staying at poly in a few weeks and never have before. I love how staying at a resort can make youoverlookk the negatives. I was always like ehh copper creek, and then we stayed there and I was like we need to but here immediately. And Riveria was kind-of that for you.
Great video! I love your method. This video also makes me really wish we were in wdw right now! 😭 Soon enough though. Thanks Jen!
wow you read my mind! I was looking a video about this!
Hurray!! So glad, Clara!
@@JenLefforge love this kind of videos! just an idea, a video where we can see each dvc room from each dvc resort would be great, to compare the sizes and what its included in each room. :)
A lot of good information. Thank you
Thank you for the video! Looking forward to your daily posts.
I'm so glad you liked it, Melissa!
Poly has the biggest studio on property, bigger than OKW and with 1.5 baths, it allows a family of 5 to get ready more efficiently than any other studio on property dvc or standard room.
Love you and all your content Jen- thank you for brightening my day! 💕
Absolutely my pleasure, Laura! Thank you for watching!
Jen Lefforge - we are a family of 5 too! Torn between BLT, GF and Copper Creek for our next trip. We are usually and Epcot resort fam but want to try MK with my folks (both need ECVs) so this video was very helpful!! GF rooms tempt me! Pool is better there for littles than BLT. But Copper Creek is cheaper!! Decisions decisions!!
This was an awesome video. I am seriously considering a DVC membership and this answered A Lot of questions I had!
I love this! Very good for my addonitis - which may never happen but it's fun to think about.
Our home resort is Animal Kingdom
Yes yes yes! You’re the best! Great information too!
Thanks Shannon!! Hope you all are hanging in there!🥰
Jen Lefforge I’m doing what I can. You certainly help a ton!
"I need toilets" - 😂
We stayed at Riviera in February. It was amazing! If I could afford the points there i would buy there tomorrow. Thanks for the video it was great
Yes, the scary clown pool Maybe it could use a refurb.
Yes. Absolutely needs a refurb.😳🤣🥰
It may be iconic but my kid wont use it...
So much great information!!
Has anyone else noticed that Kermit in the background looks absolutely horrified?! lol! Great recap, Jen, thank you! I rented points for a studio (just hubby and me) at AKL - Kidani and the Poly (!!!) for September this year (here's hoping.... :( ). Really can't wait, these look beautiful!
that sounds like such an amazing trip! And yes, here's to September happening just as you imagined it would!
Great breakdown! I am with you on the toilet situation. Huge selling point for BLT and Kidani. We own at OKW too, huge rooms and amazing point chart there. Plus it’s relaxation personified!
Jenny, it so absolutely is . . . .
I agree completely--if it doesn't have a toilet, it doesn't count as a bathroom. The only DVC resort we've ever stayed at was BWV, the time we rented from another TGMer. While we loved it there, I guess I discovered on that vacation that I'm a value resort kind of girl. It's all good, though--if we all liked the same thing, what a boring world it would be. Loved the video, Jen! Hugs, Kim
Absolutely!! There’s lots of different ways to do WDW!
Thanks for all your hard work you put in this vlog.❤👍👏 Our home resort is Boardwalk and enjoyed being a member since 1998. Thanks again for your enthusiastic vlogs keep up the great job.❤👍😍
Thank you, Pamela! Golly, kind of curious to know what you paid . . .
@@JenLefforge we paid $89 I just would had bought more.
'Amazing! Thanks for telling me!
This was great! We’re not DVC but we have rented so it was cool to hear the grading system...side note....I announced to my husband...” I’ll be in the kitchen watching Jen Laforge and making dinner! 🤣 glad you’ll be putting out new videos everyday! Stay well!
I'm so glad you liked it! And thank you for sticking with such a long video!!
Such an informative video! I couldn't for the life of me research all of these resorts. I can't even wrap my head around the points chart when trying to book rooms😂
What a great video! Wish I had come across it sooner.
Just wondering why you did not mention the Golf Course in Amenities for SSR and maybe OKW (for closeness to Clubhouse at SSR). You get a DVC discount there and it is very convenient to get to when you stay at either Resort. Also, you could have mentioned the tennis courts
Great video Jen. My family has been doing 2 BR stays at Old Key West for a few years and we figured it would at least be worth looking into DVC. One question I had was about expiration dates there, which you dealt with personally. Can you buy contracts with the 2042 and 2057 expiration dates on the resale market? I assume you can but 2057 is likely harder to find. Is that why you chose to buy direct from Disney for Old Key West? I’m aware of the perks only being available when purchasing direct from Disney, but what are the differences specifically related to buying Old Key West resale vs. direct? How does price compare? I assume Disney charges more than the typical resale rate, but I don’t know if it’s closer to Old Key West resale or to the “current” DVC properties (Riviera, Copper Creek). I assume the benefit from doing this is you get the perks and the 2057 expiration. What am I missing? Thanks for the info!
Great video. I really like hearing about the DVC properties even though I am not interested in purchasing, I think I will add a couple of them to our hotel tours we take while we are on vacation. We really like visiting other resorts just to break up the park days with something a little different.
Nice, honest reviews! I wish it made sense for my family to invest in the DVC, but we usually stay in Moderate or Value Resorts
Which are wonderful and fantastic and absolutely a way to enjoy Disney! I love DVC but it is just one way to go - there are lots of other ways and huge benefits to them as well.
We had a great time at Art of Animation and can deal with one bathroom and small room size. I really like the Poly for theming, amenities, location and price. It looks like we could buy 100 points and stay every year for 5 weekdays during much of the year. Am I right to say that that’s the only DVC option that you can do that? If so, that’s very attractive for us.
Maybe we can upgrade later, especially if we have a third kid or when they get older. But Poly with 100 points seems a great “entry level” DVC buy in.
1996 synchronized swimming for USA won gold 😍 I know this because I saw that and said I HAVE TO LEARN TO DO THAT lol
Enjoyed this “history” of dVC ranking very much
I was ready for a meltdown when I saw the notification of your video: thank you soooo much for such lovely diversion. I'm praying for my 90 year old Dad and your Mom! God Bless You for all you do for us! --Susan
Susan that is exactly why I’m doing it and it’s for me as much as you guys!! Thank you for sharing that with me and we are all in this together! Just got off the phone with mom and she’s doing well so we will just keep on keeping on!
Great video!!!
Loved this and all your videos. Thank you! We were renting points at BLT for THIS week. Our first DVC resort stay. Wah! We are very grateful that we got rebooked for the fall. Highly considering purchasing a resale contract and this info is amazing. My hubby and I are both very analytical. He'll find this helpful when the time comes. The kids and I keep saying "Dad hasn't said no yet." Haha!
Oh! And I have 5 kids, so Amen on the toilets.
Seriously look at the resale market. I hate that so many people are probably going to have to look at selling, but I definitely could see some prices coming down in the coming months (and I feel like a jerk even saying that but if it's something you've been considering anyway . . )
Jen Lefforge We for sure will be looking at that. My husband says we should get a stay under our belts before committing. I can’t imagine that we wouldn’t love it, but he has a point. We have only stayed moderate or off site before. For now, we’ll just watch your videos and Frozen 2!
Hahaha! The scary clown pool😂
2016 my boys and I were there. My youngest son,(17 at the time )spent hours on the slide
This was epic! Perfect for my 45 minute long drive home. Thanks for your hard work and research 😁
Oh hurray! So glad you enjoyed it!
A lot of folks have the misconception that AKL is far away from everything. It’s not. Yes, you have to drive or take a bus, but distance it is not. AKL distance to Hollywood Studios 4.2 miles. BLT (Contemporary) is 7.4 miles. AKL to Epcot is 5.5, BLT to Epcot 4.5, and Wilderness Lodge is 4 miles. AKL to AK is 1 mile. BLT to AK is 6.5 miles. It’s really not that far to EPCOT. AKL just looks far on a map, but in reality, distance wise, it’s not. It is far from Magic Kingdom. Yes, mode of transportation is bus or car. However, I will say, the buses are very reliable at AKL than everywhere else I’ve stayed at.
What's AKL?
Great analysis Jen! Maybe give the grades number values to determine the winners in purposes of rankings. So difficult choosing a favorite but definitely helpful!
Great idea! It is SO HARD to pick a favorite!
For what it's worth, I think Stormalong Bay is great for littles and those who are not yet swimming! There is the zero entry sand bottom person I which is perfect for that she group. They have all sizes of life jackets available. This is assuming if your child is not yet swimming, you would be right there with them anyway - there lifeguards are also very attentive. Loved it there!
*sand bottom portion 😉
our problem was three kids with varying swimming levels and it’s just a lot of acreage to keep track of three. For fewer kids or closer ages I think it would be fine.
Great video, Jen! Looking forward to seeing all the videos you have planned! Also, how in the world do they consider it a bathroom without a toilet?!
This is what I’m saying! And thank you, Liz! Having this normalcy is helping me not lose it!😳🥰
Thanks for making this video! It was very informative! Do you think that the Riviera is so "expensive" in terms of points because it is so new? As in maybe five years from now it may go down in points per week, or will this be the standard?
It can’t go down much over the entire 50 years of the contract as that’s set with the original deed. And you are most welcome!
This makes my brain explode. I feel like IF we ever bought DVC, we’d buy at the Riviera or one of the Monorail Loop Resorts.
You wouldn’t buy Riviera because I would talk you out of it. I’ll tell you why when you’re ready to buy.🥰
Jen Lefforge We’ll probably be dead before we’re ready to buy. 😂
@@kaylaandmarkalan Or, more likely, you won't be dead but you'll decide it's not the best financial decision ever. Because you're very smart!
We own Animal Kingdom. It is far but the extra toilets sealed the deal lol
I absolutely love Saratoga . I’m weird I loved the old rooms before the refurbishment. Food situation I thought horrible. Old Key west absolutely love except the busses( mother of god!). Boardwalk nice but I wasn’t overwhelmed. Beach club, my daughter and me spend 4 hours a day in those pools! Location. Food. It’s everything! Copper creek waaayyy to small rooms! Boulder ridge Love. The pools so much more quiet. The cabins right outside and great food choices. Contemporary is starting to interest me....... so happy I found your channel! Fair and balanced and you tell it like it is! I love it!!!!!
Well I’m glad you found it too!! And yes to all the things you said about BC - so much good there!
Topics: Best DVC resorts for toddlers, teens, adults, singles, geriatric people, newlyweds?
Love it, Carol! Thank you!
Hi Jen! Great video as always - I totally understand what you mean when you say you like AKL because you need more toilets having 5 people in your family - but as a family of 3 girls I still appreciate the rooms that have a second shower for when we need to get ready to go!
Yeah, I completely get that - I just wish they had both! At AKL they have two showers AND two toilets! I was hoping that's what they would do moving forward but sadly, no.
With regards to the resale restriction, as per the POS resale points at Riviera are only able to be used at Riviera (it specifies that they can't be used at future resorts).
Really enjoyed this video! Always interesting to see other people's views on the various resorts.
Thank you for clarifying, Matthew!!and thank you so much for watching!
My husband and I just went through this. We were between Animal Kingdom Villas and Bay Lake Tower. The Cotemporary is our home but AKV is a great value. In the end we decided on BLT. The location and atmosphere we are sacrificing on. We will have to alternate between 1 bedrooms and studios. But a studio with a theme park view I feel is ok in the alternate years! Lol. Our resale contract should be sent to Disneu this week. I'm hoping they don't exercise ROFR like they did last year. 🤞
Totally with you on the toilet situations.... wish when they refurbished OKW would have added one to a 1 bed!
Oh my gosh wouldn't THAT have been amazing!
For us...I like the studios that sleep 5...like Boulder Ridge and Poly. It is tight space with that many in a studio..but for a trip that is only a few days and most of your time may be spent at the parks..it's a better value. We took our son (12), godson (22), and his girlfriend for two nights and Poly was GREAT!
I would be fine with them with 4 but with all five of us it’s just too tight! But they are lovely!
The one restaurant you forgot at the Grand Floridians the the Grand Floridian Cafe. Also great!
Yes thank you! And I love that place, too!
I love this video! Are you going to give Boardwalk a new grade now that Pennywise is gone?? :)
BWAHAHA maybe??😂
I just found your vlog. You do an awesome job. You remind me of ‘Grace’ from Will &Grace, you have such an expressive face and a lovely smile. Many years ago I bought at Beach Club Villas after doing tons of research, only to fall in love with Kidani when I was ‘Forced’ to stay there one year. I sold my DVC contract for the beach club, for 12 dollars more a point then I bought it for (sold in 2016). I am now shopping for an AKL contract. Your videos have been so helpful.
Honestly if Scott loved it more that would absolutely be where we owned as I ADORE it!! And thank you for being so kind and encouraging! It means the world to me.❤️
Now that we are buying a house it occurred to me that my next life goal can be buying into DVC. So excited to obsess over this now! Thanks, Jen!!!!!
One always needs a new thing to obsess over, Liz. It's the key to happiness! Congratulations on the house - I hope everything goes well with the closing.
Jen Lefforge 😅😅😅
I don't know how I missed this. Great overview. By the way I did go to the GF Spa in 2003. Loved it and can't wait to go back.
Well, to be fair to you, Nicole, I do post a lot . . . LOL. And I really want to try the GF spa!
not working so I am tuning in right now with a cold seltzer... I am thankful for you during this time.
Well that makes me very happy Jenny!
my trip was april 3-9th crying over here................
Great review. I have never thought about old key west because of it location and size. Last time we were at BC but missed a true quick service. Location was good but I agree the room was micro small for us...a couple plus an adult son. My favorite is the AK but I prefer JH. Out last stay at Kidani had a endless walk to the lobby but we had three bathrooms in a two bedroom. I have been looking to buy at AK but I have issues with my wife. We will see... anyway, thanks for your review.
You don’t go on and on, you’re very helpful. thank you😉
What a kind comment, Simone. Thank you very much!
Jen, You made this on my birthday. Sadly, my birthday trip was crushed by the horror. My favorite place is Jambo House. Our last trip we stayed at the Beach Club the previous January and we miss the AKL. The better transportation does not make up for the positive traits at AKL.
Happy Very Belated Birthday, Larry!
I fully support your opinion that if it doesn't have a toilet it's not a bathroom.
Have you discussed some of the DVC resell restrictions that were given to Riviera that was not to other resorts previously? Also, I have heard that the resorts not in Orlando have caused too much demand for Orlando that was not always there. For example, someone buying at Vero Beach but mostly using in Orlando. Just wondering the future of resell and DVC in general.
"Thank you for the toilets Bay Lake Tower" 😂😂😂😂. I have a husband and three kids and I can verify that two toilets are essential!!!
I’m saying...GAME CHANGER!! 😆
I think eyes get big for some on DVC. We did 90 points per year at OKW and mostly stay at OKW or Boardwalk each year.. And if we skip a year we have 180 to work with without borrowing. I would never compare a 2 bedroom DVC home away from home to a couple rooms at Port Orleans when talking $ because if one is to forgo a 2 bedroom and go with a studio, you can get 3 studio room reservations for the same points as a two bedroom per night... so that would be a fair comparison. Also the savings on annual passes lets us get what (feels like) a free vacation every other year. We get the same annual pass that is available to FL residents being with DVC.. Example: If we go in April the year we get the Annual passes (nearly the cost of a 7 day hopper pass)... The following year if we go in Feb or Mar, we dont need to purchase tickets and like always.... use our points for the room..."Feels Free" Annual Dues are on auto pilot each month at $58.80 for 2020. Nothing can save you more at Disney for staying in top resorts for the the price of value resorts once your initial purchase is paid for, and your points match a typical room you would get without DVC. If your eyes get big and you get points to stay in a 2 bedroom when you normally stay at moderate resort room, then the math may not work out for you... If you normally drop thousands for rack rate as a non DVC member to get a 2 bedroom home at Disney World then getting points for a two bedroom will definitely work in your favor.
This is our delayed, but feels free year (if i dont cancel), but I have 5 nights 6 days at Boardwalk for the Flower and Garden at Epcot. The points are 14 per night so I used 70 of my 90 points.. So in dues you could say this will cost me 140 per night, but try and find a 5 night room only stay at any Disney World resort and see if it would compare to the Boardwalk and I have 20 points left over for my next vacation.. DVC is always a win win if you frequently go to Disney World are are able to buy just the amount of point needed to take the same vacation/accommodations you would normally take before getting into DVC. I think the newer 'resale' restrictions make it harder but i still see DVC as amazing
We lucked out and got a value studio at akl. Our view was great!!! We had a view of the savanna
How lovely! Hope you had a great trip!
I have my 180 booking window next week. I'm having this weird guilt about booking when so many are having to cancel their current vacations. This whole situation is so wild. Thank you for making these videos! A great distraction that we all need.
Well, I figure DVC is kind of a long game type thing, Michelle, and we all have literally decades of wonderful vacations ahead of us so let's keep dreaming about them!
@@JenLefforge so true! Our home is Bay Lake and I love dreaming about my next trip "home"
Jen, so I am having a hard time finding the value in DVC with a family of four that will only grow with my kids' spouses and grandkids. With average points required for a weeks stay at about 281 in this video, and finding equivalent resales still around $30,000 for that many points. Was the April week you choose say an average point requirement in the year? As you say, planning for retirement and family time how many points [annually] do you think the average family needs for at least trips every other year? Or is it really worth it to piecemeal points together until you achieve your needs? seems like a lot of trouble. IDK....
All great questions! We have a family of 5 and go every other year so we own a 120 point contract at OKW. We only go for 6 nights during the lowest point requirement time (January) and it's currently 195 points or the week. For us the math works but I totally get it really depends on where you want to stay! OKW is a tremendous value for points and we are very frugal. I could never justify say Grand Floridian or even Bay Lake so I get this!
thanks Jen, traveling in January would be tough for us given that the kids would have just gotten back into school from Christmas break, I think anyway. Thanks for your reply and input, it is appreciated.
I’m drinking wine and chatting with you as you talk. You’re not necessarily answering me but it feels ok.♥️
I’m answering you in my mind.
It would be rather 'mathy' but it would be interesting to compare the points for each DVC during different times of year, especially with the new points change for 2021. For example is the wilderness lodge as much value during Christmas time, or Beach Club and Riviera during big Epcot festivals, or BLT during spring break and Christmas.
LOL yes, very mathy, but I might be up to it! Good idea!
Hey, first time watcher and enjoyed the video.
I actually think your rating of the Riviera Resort might be unfair, at least in evaluating studio accommodations. Here's why; while I agree with your statement "a bathroom isn't a bathroom unless it has two toilets", the split bathroom with a seperate shower and shower/bath is great to avoid the juggernaut of getting ready and walking out the door in the morning. If you then look at all the studio villas, 3 resorts have that advantage; the Polynesian, the Grand Floridian and the Riviera. Of those 3 resorts, the Riviera is the least expensive.
Furthermore, the Riviera offers a pull-down Murphy Bed with a regular mattress rather then a pull-out coach. The Riviera is the only DVC resort to offer that at least in the studios.
Also, the refrigerator in the Riviera has a small freezer compartment. That's great for ice packs. I find that advantage to be a nessecery item since you no longer can bring ice in coolers into the parks. How else are you going to be able to keep a portable cooler cold with a frozen ice pack? The only other solution is to bring a big cooler, put your previously frozen ice packs in the cooler and schlep out to an ice machine every night to refill the big cooler - BIG HASSLE!!!!
As far as location, since the Riviera is connected to the skyliner, it's just as convenient to Epcot and Hollywood Studios as are the Crescent Lake dvc resorts. In fact, the skyliner would always be available whereas you may be waiting quite a while for one of the friendship boats on Crescent Lake. Now if you're Magic Kingdom crazy, then you'd truly need to stay at a monorail resort. However, if you think a Hollywood Studios/Epcot connection is a good or acceptable trade off for a Magic Kingdom/Epcot transportation system, Riviera works out great.
Now mind you, I'm not a dvc owner and will only be renting points. I hope I'll be able to snatch up a reservation at Riviera. I'm not in the 11 month window yet and there's not a lot of owners with available Riviera points yet, but I have my fingers crossed.
Great points! We only ever stay in 1 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms, so always have a full sized refrigerator with freezer. And absolutely to the location. I stand by my opinion, but I appreciate your thoughts! And thanks for watching!
Hey Jen - We are brand new to your channel and we are HOOKED. We are SOOOOO grateful for your incredibly informative vlogs. When you were discussing Animal Kingdom, you mentioned "pool hopping" privileges that DVC members get? It is our understanding that DVC members no longer area allowed to "pool hop" between DVC resorts? Can you explain what you meant?
It's still available but it has limitations and they may not be allowing it right now due to Covid restrictions. Also, certain pools (AKV Jambo main pool, Stormalong Bay) are excluded. You just have to check before your trip! Even pre-Covid they would suspend it during really busy times but they communicate that through the member website. Hope that helps!